Rivertown Sports Hockey Rules

All league games at
Rivertown Sports are played under the USA Hockey Official Rules of Inline
Hockey. We also have “house rules” that have been
incorporated into our official rule book. The "house
rules" in effect at Rivertown Sports are denoted on this page
by being blue in color. USA
Hockey rules that do not apply, such as references to outdoor rinks,
have been deleted. In cases of conflict the “house rules” will supercede those of USA Hockey
InLine.

The Rink

Rule 101. Rink

(a)
The game of "inline hockey" shall be played on wood,
cement, asphalt or plastic surface known as a "RINK."

Rule 102. Dimensions of Rink

(a)
As nearly as possible, the dimensions of the rink shall be 185 feet
long and 85 feet wide. The minimum size for a rink shall be 145 feet
long and 65 feet wide. In all rinks used for State, Regional and
National Championships, the surface dimensions shall not be less
than 165 feet long and 65 feet wide. It is recommended that the
corners be uniformly rounded in the arc of a circle with a minimum
radius of 23 feet and a maximum radius of 28 feet.

(b)
The rink shall be surrounded by a permanent or temporary wall or
fence known as the "BOARDS," which shall extend not less
than 8 inches and not more than 48 inches in height above playing
surface. The ideal height of the boards shall be 42 inches. It is
recommended that the kick plate at the bottom of the boards be
yellow or light in color.
The
boards shall be constructed in such a manner that the surface facing
the playing surface shall be smooth and free of any obstruction or
objects that could cause injury to players. All doors giving access
to the playing surface must swing away from the playing surface.
It
is highly recommended that the entire rink, including players and
penalty benches, be enclosed with safety glass, fencing and/or other
protective screens designed to separate players from spectators. All
gear used to hold such equipment in place shall be mounted on the
boards on the side away from the playing surface.

Rule 103. Goal Posts and Nets

a)
The goal frame shall be made of metal or other approved material.
The goal posts shall be set 6 feet apart from the inside of the
posts and the crossbar shall extend vertically 4 feet above the
playing surface, connecting the tops of the goal posts. Alternative
sizes are acceptable for regular house league play.
The
goal posts and cross bar shall be painted red and all other exterior
surfaces shall be painted white.

(b)
Attached to each goal frame shall be netting strong enough to
withstand any shot by a puck.

(c)
A minimum of 12 feet to a maximum of 15 feet from each end of the
rink a red line 2 inches wide known as the "GOAL LINE"
shall be painted extending completely across the rink and continuing
vertically up the side boards.
The
goal shall be centered on the goal line and shall be fixed in such a
manner as to remain stationary during the progress of the game. The
goal posts shall be anchored in such a manner as to permit a goal
post to become dislodged when hit by a player with a significant
degree of force.
Play
shall be stopped immediately when the goal post has been displaced
from its normal position.

Rule 104. Goal Crease and Goalkeeper's Privileged Area

(a)
In front of each goal, a "GOAL CREASE" shall be marked by
a line 2 inches wide. The goal crease shall be laid out as follows:
A semicircle 6 feet in radius and 2 inches in width shall be drawn
using the center of the goal line as the center point.
In
addition, an "L" shaped marking of 5 inches in length
(both sides) at each front corner shall be painted on the surface.
The location of the "L" marking is measured by drawing an
imaginary line 4 inches from the goal line to the edge of the
semicircle. At that point, the "L" shall be drawn.

(b)
The goal crease area shall include all the space outlined by the
semi-circular crease lines (including goal crease lines) and
extending vertically four feet to the bottom of the cross bar.

(c)
The goalkeeper's "PRIVILEGED AREA" is an area bounded in
the rear by the goal line, in front by an imaginary line connecting
the end zone face-off spots and on the sides by imaginary lines
extending perpendicular from the end boards to the end zone face-off
spots.

Rule 105. Division of Playing Surface

a)
The playing surface shall be divided into two halves by a
"CENTER RED LINE" 12 inches wide, extending completely
across the rink and continuing vertically up the side boards.

(b)
The center red line shall be considered to be a part of the zone in
which the puck is located.

(c)
The half of the playing surface in which the goal is situated shall
be called the "DEFENDING ZONE" of the team defending that
goal. The half of the playing surface furthest from the defending
goal shall be known as the "ATTACKING ZONE."

Rule 106. Center Face-Off Spot and Circle

(a)
One 12-inch in diameter face-off spot shall be at the exact center
of the rink.
With
this spot as a center, a 15-feet radius circle shall be marked with
a line 2 inches wide. On both sides of the circle there shall be two
lines 2 feet long, 2 inches wide and 4 feet apart.

Rule 107. High Zone Face-Off Spots and Circles

(a)
Four red face-off spots 2 feet in diameter shall be marked on the
surface 32-1/2 feet from the end zone face-off spots along an
imaginary line connecting the end face-off spots. Within each
face-off spot draw two parallel lines 4 inches from the top and
bottom of the spot. The area within the two lines shall be painted
red.

Rule 108. End Zone Face-off Spots and Circles

(a)
In both zones and on both sides of each goal, red face-off spots and
circles shall be marked on the playing surface. The face-off spots
shall be 2 feet in diameter. Within each face-off spot draw two
parallel lines 4 inches from the top and bottom of the spot. The
area within the two lines shall be painted red.
With
this spot as a center, a 15-feet radius circle shall be marked with
a red line 2 inches wide. On both sides of the circle there shall be
two lines 2 feet long, 2 inches wide and 4 feet apart.

(b)
The End Zone face-off spots shall be located equi-distant from the
side boards and 20 feet from each goal line. It is recommended that
there be a 44 foot distance between the End Zone face-off spots in
the same zone.

Rule 109. Players' Bench

(a)
Each rink shall have seats or benches for the use of each team. Each
player bench shall have accommodations for at least 10 people and
shall be placed immediately alongside the playing surface, as near
as possible to the center of the rink.
All
doors opening to the playing surface shall swing away from the
playing surface.

(b)
Only players in uniform and Team Officials (up to a maximum of four)
shall be permitted to occupy the bench area.

(c)
During a game, Coaches, Managers, and Trainers are restricted to the
length of the player benches. During the pre-game warm-up, Coaches,
Managers, and Trainers of teams in the Squirt (10U) division and
lower are allowed onto the playing surface to supervise their team's
warm-up.

Rule 110. Penalty Bench

(a)
Each rink must be provided with seats or benches to be used for the
seating of a penalized player, the Game Timekeeper, and Official
Scorer. The penalty bench shall be separated from the players'
benches, ideally on the opposite side of the rink.

(b)
On the playing surface immediately in front of the Penalty
Timekeeper's seat there shall be marked in red a semicircle of 10
foot radius and 2 inches wide which shall be known as the Referee's
Crease.

Rule 111. Signal and Timing Devices

(a)
Each rink shall be provided with some form of electrical clock for
the purpose of keeping the spectators, players and Game Officials
accurately informed as to all time elements at all stages of the
game, including the time remaining to be played.
Timing
devices for both game time and penalty time shall show time
remaining to be played or served.

(b)
Each rink shall be provided with a siren, or other suitable sound
device to signify the end of playing time.

(c)
Behind each goal, electric lights or similar devices shall be set up
for the use of the Goal Judges. A red light or other signal shall
signify the scoring of a goal. This is a
recommendation and not a requirement.

Teams

Rule 201. Composition of Teams

(a) A team shall be composed of five players on the playing
surface, including the goalkeeper. A maximum
of 15 players shall be permitted on any one team roster. No
player shall be permitted to be listed on two different team rosters
in the same league. No team shall be allowed to start a game with
less than four players on the playing
surface. A team not having at least four
players on the ice to start a game, will be given one minute, after
the referee is ready to drop the puck, to place four players on the
ice. After the one minute has expired, the game will be declared a
forfeit if the team cannot place four skaters on the ice. Anytime a team has been reduced to less than three players,
the game shall be stopped and declared a forfeit.

(b)
In the adult
divisions, the birth date and telephone number of all players under
the age of 18 must be recorded on the team roster. Players under the
age of 16 are prohibited from participating in adult games at
Rivertown Sports. Failure to comply with this rule will result in
suspension of the player and forfeiture of the game(s).

(c)
In order to maintain the competitive
balance of each division, all roster changes/additions that take
place AFTER the season has started must have the approval of
Rivertown Sports management PRIOR to the affected player’s
participation in a game. Failure to comply with this rule may result
in forfeiture of the game(s). It is the responsibility of the team
and it’s captain/coach to notify Rivertown Sports of roster changes.

Rule 202. Captain of Team

(a) One Captain shall be appointed by each team and only the
Captain shall have the privilege of discussing with the Referee any
matter relating to the interpretation of rules which may arise
during the course of a game. The Captain should
wear the letter "C," approximately 3 inches in height and
in contrasting color, in a conspicuous position on the front of the
jersey. If the Captain is not available due to injury or penalty,
another player may be designated to act as Captain. A complaint
about a penalty is not a "matter relating to the interpretation
of rules" and a minor penalty shall be assessed to any Captain
or other player making such a complaint.

(b) The Referee and Official Scorer shall be advised prior to
the start of the game, of the names of the Captains of each team and
the designated alternates.

(c) Any player, except a goalkeeper, shall be entitled to be
identified as the Captain.

(d) Any Captain or player who comes off the players' bench and
makes any protest or intervention with the Officials for any purpose
shall be assessed a minor penalty for Abuse of Officials.

Rule 203. Players In Uniform

(a) No player (except goaltenders, in any
youth or adult division will be allowed to participate in a game
without a permanent number on his or her jersey/shirt. Numbers
applied with tape, marker, etc. will not be allowed. Numbers must be
at least six inches in height.

(b)
Each team shall be allowed one goalkeeper on the playing surface at
one time. The goalkeeper may be removed and another
"player" substituted. Such substitute shall not be
permitted the privileges of the goalkeeper.

(c)
It is recommended that each team have on its bench a substitute
goalkeeper who shall be fully dressed and equipped to play. When the
substitute goalkeeper enters the game the position shall be taken
without delay and no warm-up shall be permitted.

(d)
Except when all designated goalkeepers are incapacitated, no player
on the playing roster in that game shall be permitted to wear the
equipment of the goalkeeper. If a team's goalkeeper(s) is
unavailable to continue, the team must immediately appoint a
temporary goalkeeper or place an additional skater on the playing
surface with none of the goalkeeper's privileges. A goalkeeper may
be substituted for by another goalkeeper during play with full
goalkeeper's privileges. The temporary goalkeeper is
governed by full goalkeeper privileges and limitations.

Rule 204. Playing Lineup

(a)
Upon the Referee's signal prior to the start of the game and
following any stoppage of play, the Visiting Team shall promptly
place a lineup on the playing surface ready to play and no
substitution shall be made from that time until play has resumed.
The Home Team may then make any desired substitution which does not
result in the delay of the game. If there is any undue delay by
either team in changing lines, the Referee shall order the offending
team(s) to take their positions immediately and not permit line
changes. When a substitution has been made under the above rule, no
additional substitution may be made until play commences, except
when a penalty is assessed.

Rule 205. Change of Players

(a)
Players may be changed at any time from the players' bench, provided
that the player or players leaving the playing surface are within 5
feet of the players' bench and out of the play before the change is
made. If, in the course of making a substitution, either player
deliberately plays the puck while the retiring player is still on
the playing surface, the infraction "Too Many Players"
shall be assessed. This shall be a bench minor penalty. If, in the
course of a substitution, either player is accidentally struck with
the puck, the play shall not be stopped and no penalty shall be
assessed.

(b)
A goalkeeper may be substituted for by a player or goalkeeper at any
time during play. The goalkeeper must be within 5 feet of the
players' bench before the substitute may enter the playing surface.
For a violation of this rule there shall be no time penalty to the
team making the premature substitution, but the ensuing face-off
shall take place at the center face-off spot.

(c)
A player serving a penalty on the penalty bench, who is to be
changed after the penalty has been served, must proceed at once by
way of the playing surface before any change can be made. For a
violation of this rule, a bench minor penalty shall be assessed.

(d)
During a stoppage of play a goalkeeper may not go to the players'
bench without the permission of the Referee unless there is a
substitution by another player or goalkeeper. When a substitution is
made under this rule, the replaced goalkeeper shall not return to
the playing surface until play resumes, except that immediate
re-entry into the game shall be permitted when a penalty is assessed
to either team. For a violation of this rule, a bench minor penalty
shall be assessed.

Rule 206. Injured Players

(a)
When a player, other than a goalkeeper, is injured or compelled to
leave the playing surface during a game, the player may retire from
the game and be replaced immediately by a substitute.

(b)
Any goalkeeper who sustains an injury or becomes ill must be ready
to resume play immediately or be replaced by a substitute
goalkeeper. No additional time shall be allowed by the Referee for
the purpose of enabling the injured or ill goalkeeper to resume the
position. The substitute goalkeeper shall enter the game without
delay and no warm-up shall be permitted. The substitute goalkeeper
shall be subject to the regular rules governing goalkeepers and
shall be entitled to the same privileges.

(c)
Any penalized player who has been injured, may proceed to the
dressing room without going to penalty bench. The penalized team
shall immediately put a substitute player on the penalty bench to
serve the entire penalty. The penalized player who has been injured
and has been replaced on the penalty bench is not eligible to play
until the penalty time has expired.

(d)
When a player is injured and cannot continue play or go to the
players' bench, play shall not be stopped until the injured player's
team has secured possession of the puck. If the player's team is in
possession of the puck at the time of injury, play shall be stopped
immediately unless the team has a scoring opportunity. In the case
where it is obvious that a player has sustained a serious injury,
play shall be stopped immediately.

(e)
A player, other than the goalkeeper, whose injury appears serious
enough to warrant a stoppage of play, may not participate further in
the game until the completion of the ensuing face-off.

(f)
If a player or goalkeeper is obviously bleeding, play shall be
stopped immediately and the injured player shall be ruled off the
playing surface. Such player shall not be permitted to return to
play until the bleeding has been stopped and the cut or abrasion
covered. Likewise, any Official who is bleeding, shall not continue
until the bleeding has been stopped and the cut or abrasion covered.

(g) During stoppages of play due to
injury, the game clock shall continue to run unless there
is blood on the rink that must be cleaned and/or the referee
determines that the injury is serious enough to require a lengthy
stoppage of play.

Rule 207. Substitute Goaltenders

(a) Due to the
detrimental effect of playing a game without a goaltender, it is the
policy of Rivertown Sports that there be "free substitution" of
goaltenders during league play. Any goaltender that is of legal age
to play in a division may substitute for a team regardless of
whether they are rostered for another team in that division.

(b) Teams may not use the same
“substitute” goaltender in more than five (5) games if that
goaltender is the regular goaltender for another team in the same
division. The five games allowed include playoff games. Failure to
comply with this rule may result in forfeiture of the game(s) and
suspension of the offending goaltender.

Rule 208. Teams Forfeiting Games

(a)
Teams forfeiting their last regular-season game may
be ruled ineligible for the playoffs if it appears that the forfeit
was done in order to enhance the team’s playoff pairings or
performance. Implementation of this rule will be at the sole
discretion of Rivertown Sports.

(b) Teams forfeiting more than two games in one season for
non-payment will be ineligible for that season’s playoffs, regardless of their
league standings, and will be required to post a deposit to play in future
seasons.

Equipment

Rule 301. Sticks

The
sticks shall be made of wood, carbon composite, graphite or aluminum
materials approved by USA Hockey InLine and must not have any
projections extending from the stick. Hollow ends of the stick must be
fully covered. Adhesive tape of any color
may be wrapped around the stick at any place, except
the blade. Adhesive tape on the stick blade should be white or clear
in color. If black tape is used, it must be of the non-marking
variety. The referee may rule any stick illegal if he determines
that the stick is leaving marks on the floor.

(b)
No stick shall exceed 60 inches in length from the heel to the end
of the shaft, nor more than 12-1/2 inches from the heel to the end
of the blade. The blade of the stick shall not be less than 2 inches
nor more than 3 inches in width at any point. The curvature of the
blade of the stick shall not be restricted. It is recommended,
however, that the curvature of the blade of the stick not exceed 1/2
inch.

(c)
The blade of the goalkeeper's stick shall not exceed 3-1/2 inches in
width at any point except at the heel where it shall not exceed
4-1/2 inches. The length of the blade shall not exceed 15-1/2 inches
in length from the heel to the end of the blade. The widened portion
of the goalkeeper's stick extending up the shaft from the blade
shall not extend more than 26 inches from the heel and shall not
exceed 3-1/2 inches in width.

(d)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player or goalkeeper who
uses a stick not conforming to the provisions of this rule. If a
goal is scored with an illegal stick, the proper penalty shall be
assessed and the goal shall be allowed.

Rule 302. Skates

(a)
All players and officials must wear skates designed for inline
hockey with a maximum of five wheels. They must also be approved by
USA Hockey InLine. Brakes are optional. If
skates with brakes are used, the brakes must be covered with white
or clear adhesive tape.

The use of speed skates or any skate so designed that it may cause
injury is prohibited. The use of quad skates is not prohibited, but
is not recommended.

(c) It is recommended that all axle openings have a
wheel and axle. It is required that the front and rear axle
openings have a wheel and axle. For a violation of this rule, play
shall be stopped when the offending team gains possession.

Rule 303. Goalkeeper's
Equipment

(a)
With the exception of skates and stick, all the equipment worn by
the goalkeeper must be constructed solely for the protection of the
head or body, and must not include any garment or contrivance which
would give the goalkeeper undue assistance in keeping goal.
Abdominal aprons extending down the thighs or the outside of the
pants are prohibited.

(b)
The goalkeeper's blocker glove shall not exceed 8 inches in width
nor 16 inches in length at any point. The maximum length of a
goalkeeper's catching glove shall not exceed 17 inches. The cuff
shall not exceed 9 inches in width. Any bar or attachment between
the cuff and the thumb shall only extend in a straight line. Any
other pocket or pouch added to the glove by a manufacturer or
otherwise is not acceptable and makes the glove illegal. For a
violation of this rule, a minor penalty shall be assessed.

(c)
The leg guards worn by goalkeepers shall not exceed 12 inches in
extreme width when on the leg of the player. For a violation of this
rule, a minor penalty shall be assessed.

(d)
It is mandatory for all goalkeepers to wear a helmet designed for
hockey with helmet strap properly fastened and a full-face mask
designed for hockey with a chin cup. All goalkeepers must wear chest
protection, a blocker glove, catching glove, and leg pads designed
for goalkeepers. Throat protection is recommended.

Rule 304. Protective
Equipment

(Note) Although some
protective equipment is not mandatory in all age classifications,
Rivertown Sports strongly recommends that all players and
goalkeepers in all age classifications properly wear an internal
mouthpiece, a HECC approved helmet and a HECC approved full facemask
for all games and practices.

(a) Each participant is personally responsible to wear
protective equipment for all games, warm-ups and practices.
Recommended equipment for all players is: hip pads, padded hockey
pants, protective cup or pelvic protector, chest protection,
shoulder pads and throat protection. Eye and full facial protection
is strongly recommended for players 18 years and older. Mandatory
equipment for players under 18 years of age is: helmet designed for
hockey with helmet strap properly fastened, full face mask designed
for hockey with a chin cup, elbow pads, gloves
designed for hockey, knee and shin protection. Mandatory equipment
for players 18 years of age and older includes: helmet designed for
hockey with helmet strap properly fastened, gloves
designed for hockey, elbow pads, knee and shin protection. All Referees must wear a helmet designed for hockey with helmet strap
properly fastened, and knee and shin protection. Any
player who attempts to participate without the proper mandatory
equipment shall be sent off the playing surface by the Referee and
not allowed to return until such equipment has been replaced. For a
second violation of this rule by the same player, the Referee shall
assess a misconduct penalty to the offending player.

(b)
It is recommended that all protective equipment, except gloves, head
gear and goalkeeper leg pads, be entirely under the uniform.

(c)
Play shall stop immediately when a player's helmet or facemask comes
off during play. A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player who deliberately removes the helmet/
face mask during play during a non-breakaway situation.
Intentionally removing the helmet or facemask during a breakaway
situation will result in the awarding of a penalty shot.

(d)
Players on the players' and penalty bench must wear the protective
helmet/ face mask while in the bench area. For a violation of this
rule, a misconduct penalty shall be assessed to the offending
player.

Rule 305. Dangerous
Equipment

(a)
The use of pads or protectors made of metal or any other material
that may cause injury to a player is prohibited. The wearing of
casts or splints made of hard or unyielding materials is prohibited,
even if padded. Elbow pads which do not have a soft protective
covering of sponge rubber or a similar material at least 1/2 inch
thick shall be considered dangerous equipment.

(b)
A glove from which all or part of the palm has been removed or cut
to permit the use of the bare hand shall be considered illegal
equipment. A minor penalty shall be assessed to a player wearing
such a glove in play

(c)
The wearing of jewelry that is visible to the referee is prohibited
and any offending player shall be sent off the playing surface until
the jewelry is removed.

(d)All shin guards must be covered
with socks or pants. No exposed shin guards will be allowed.
Referees will treat exposed shin guards as illegal equipment and the
player will be prevented from participating in the game.

Rule 306. Puck

(a) Pucks shall be made of plastic or other material approved
material by USA Hockey InLine. The puck shall be approximately 1
inch thick, and 3 inches in diameter and shall weigh between 3-1/2
and 6-1/2 ounces.

(b)
The puck shall be of a predominant color that contrasts with the
color of the playing surface.

(c)
Does not apply.

Rule 307. Uniforms

(a) All players participating in Rivertown Sports games
should be uniformly dressed and have matching
jerseys with long sleeves.

(b)
Each player and each goalkeeper listed in the lineup should wear an individual identifying number
at least 8 inches in height on the back of the sweater. All numbers
assigned must be whole numbers between 0-99. No two members of the
same team should wear the same number.

(c)
At the discretion of the Referee, the Home Team shall change its
jerseys if the colors of the competing teams conflict

Rule 308. Equipment Measurement

(a)
A request for measurement of any equipment shall be limited to one
request by each team during the course of any stoppage of play.

(b)
When a formal complaint is made by the Captain of a team against the
dimensions of any stick, the Referee shall make the necessary
measurement immediately. If the complaint is not sustained, a bench
minor penalty shall be assessed to the team requesting the
measurement. When a formal complaint is made by the Captain of a
team against the dimensions of any piece of goalkeeper's equipment
and the measurement would cause any delay whatsoever, other than
glove measurement, such measurement shall take place at the end of
the first half or immediately in the second half or overtime. If the
complaint is not sustained, a bench minor penalty shall be assessed
to the team requesting the measurement.

(c)
A minor plus a misconduct penalty shall be assessed to any player
who refuses to surrender the stick or other piece of equipment for
measurement when requested to do so by the Referee.

(d)
The Referee may measure any equipment used for the first time in the
game.

(e)
The Referee shall assess a bench minor penalty to a team that
requests a measurement of equipment only for the purpose of delaying
the game.

(f) Prohibits coaches and/or captains from requesting a
protective or dangerous equipment check. For a violation, after a
warning by the referee, a bench minor penalty will be assessed.

Penalties

Rule 401. Penalties

(a) Penalties shall be actual playing time and shall be divided
into the following classes:

Minor
Penalties

Bench
Minor Penalties

Major
Penalties

Misconduct
Penalties

Match
Penalties

Penalty
Shot

(b)
When play is not actually in progress and an offense is committed by
any player or Team Official, the same penalty shall apply as though
play were actually in progress.

Rule 402. Minor Penalties

(a) For a "MINOR PENALTY", any
player, other than a goalkeeper, shall be ruled off the surface for
two minutes during which time no substitute shall be permitted. When
running time is being played, the penalty will start at the moment
the ensuing face-off is conducted. If a minor or bench minor penalty
terminates during a stoppage of play, allowing the team to have an
additional player on the playing surface, the player so penalized
shall remain on the penalty bench until the ensuing face-off is
conducted.

(b) For a "BENCH MINOR" penalty
one player of the team against which the penalty is imposed shall be
ruled off the ice for a period of two minutes, during which time no
substitute shall be permitted. Any non-penalized player other than a
goalkeeper, may be designated to serve the penalty by the Manager or
Coach through the playing Captain and such player shall immediately
serve the penalty.

(c) If the opposing team scores a goal while a team is
shorthanded by one or more minor or bench minor penalties, the first
of such penalties shall automatically terminate.
"Shorthanded" means that the team must be below the
numerical strength of its opponents on the playing surface at the
time the goal is scored. The minor or bench minor which terminates
automatically is the one which causes the team to be
"shorthanded." Thus, if an equal number of players from
each team are serving an equal number of minor penalties, neither
team is "shorthanded." This rule shall also apply when a
goal is scored on a penalty shot or an awarded goal.

(d)
When the minor penalties of two players of the same team terminate
at the same time, the Captain of that team shall designate to the
Referee which player shall return to the playing surface first and
the Referee shall instruct the Penalty Timekeeper accordingly.

(e)
When a player receives a major penalty and a minor penalty at the
same time, the major penalty shall be served first by the penalized
player except if the major penalties are coincident, in which case
the minor penalty shall be served first.

(f)
When coincident minor penalties are assessed to players of both
teams, the penalized players shall take their place on the penalty
bench and such players shall not leave the penalty bench until the
first stoppage of play following the expiration on their respective
penalties. Immediate substitutions shall be made for an equal number
of minor penalties or coincident minor penalties of equal duration
to each team so penalized and the penalties of the players for whom
substitutions have been made shall not be taken into account for the
purpose of a delayed penalty.

Rule 403. Major Penalties

(a)
For a "MAJOR PENALTY" the offending player shall be
assessed a game misconduct penalty and the offending team shall be
short-handed for five minutes, during which time no substitute shall
be permitted.

(b)
When coincident major penalties or coincident penalties of equal
duration including a major penalty are assessed to players of both
teams, the offending team(s) shall place a substitute player(s) on
the penalty bench and such penalized players shall not leave the
penalty bench until the first stoppage of play following the
expiration of their respective penalties. Immediate substitutions on
the playing surface shall be made for an equal number of major
penalties or coincident penalties of equal duration including a
major penalty to each team so penalized and the penalties of the
players for which substitutions have been made shall not be taken
into account for the purpose of a delayed penalty. Where it is
required to determine which of the penalized players shall be
designated to serve the delayed penalty under Rule 408, the
penalized team shall have the right to make such designation not in
conflict with Rule 402.

(c)
When coincident penalties of unequal duration (each including one
major penalty) are assessed to one player of each team, the
penalized players shall be assessed a game misconduct penalty and a
substitute player shall serve any additional penalties other than
the coincidental major penalty. The penalties which create the
disparity in total penalty time shall be served first in the normal
manner by the penalized players. Immediate substitutions on the
playing surface shall be permitted for the major penalties of each
player.

Rule 404. Misconduct Penalties

(a)
A "MISCONDUCT" penalty involves the removal of a player,
other than a goalkeeper, from the game for a period of ten minutes,
but another player is permitted to immediately replace a player so
removed. A player whose misconduct penalty has expired shall remain
in the penalty bench until the next stoppage of play.

Unless immediate substitution is permitted under the coincident
penalty rules 402 and 403, when a player receives a minor or a major
penalty plus a misconduct or a game misconduct
penalty at the same time, the penalized team shall immediately place
an additional non-penalized player other than a goalkeeper, on the
penalty bench and such player may not be changed. Any violation of
this provision shall be treated as illegal substitution under Rule
205.

(b) A "GAME MISCONDUCT" penalty involves the
suspension of a player for the balance of the game, but a substitute
is permitted to replace the player so removed.

(c)
A
player or Team Official incurring a game misconduct penalty for
abuse of officials under Rule 601 (a, e, f, i) shall be
suspended for the next regularly scheduled game of that team.
The Referees are required to report all game misconduct penalties
and all surrounding circumstances to Rivertown Sports authorities
immediately following the game. Rivertown Sports shall have full
power to impose further penalties.

(f)
A Team Official who is assessed a game misconduct may not sit near the team bench, nor in any way
attempt to direct the play of the team.

Rule
405. Match Penalties

(a)
A "MATCH PENALTY" involves the suspension of a player for
the balance of the game and the offending player shall be ordered to
the dressing room immediately. Unless immediate substitution is
permitted under the coincident penalty rules 403 and 405, the
penalized team shall immediately place a non-penalized player, other
than a goalkeeper, on the penalty bench to serve the five-minute
time portion of the penalty and such player may not be changed. The
player shall also serve any additional minor or major penalty
assessed to the offending player unless immediate substitution is
permitted under coincident penalty rules 402 and 403. The Referee is
required to report all match penalties and all surrounding
circumstances to the League Authorities immediately following the
game. The League Authorities shall have full power to impose further
penalties. For all match penalties, regardless of when assessed, a
total of 10 minutes shall be charged in the records against the
offending player.

(b)
When coincident match penalties have been assessed or when any
combination of coincident major and match penalties have been
assessed to a player or players of both teams, rule 403 covering
major penalties shall be applicable with respect to player
substitutions.

(c)
A player who has been assessed a match penalty shall be suspended
from participating in any games or practices until the case has been
dealt with by the League Authorities. A mandatory hearing shall be
held and a decision made relative to any further disciplinary action
within 30 days of the incident. If circumstances prevent the League
Authorities from conducting the hearing, the suspension shall be
automatically terminated after 30 days.

Rule 406. Penalty Shot

(a)
Any infraction of the rules which calls for a "Penalty Shot" shall
be taken as follows: The Referee shall identify the player entitled
to take the shot (as appropriate) and shall then place the puck on
the center face-off spot. The player taking the shot shall, on the
whistle of the Referee, play the puck and shall attempt to score on
the goalkeeper. Once the player taking the shot has touched the
puck, it must be kept in motion towards the opponent's goal line and
once it is shot, the play shall be considered complete. No goal can
be scored on a rebound of any kind and any time the puck crosses the
goal line the shot shall be considered complete. Only a player
designated as a goalkeeper, substitute goalkeeper or temporary
goalkeeper may defend against a penalty shot.

(b)
The goalkeeper must remain in the goal crease until the Referee
blows the whistle to start the penalty shot and in the event of
violation of this rule or any foul committed by a goalkeeper the
Referee shall allow the shot to be taken and if the shot fails the
Referee shall permit the penalty shot to be taken again. The
goalkeeper may attempt to stop the shot in any manner except by
throwing the stick or any other object, in which case a goal shall
be awarded.

(c)
In cases where a penalty shot has been awarded under Rule 609
deliberately displacing goal post or removing helmet/ facemask
during a breakaway, Rule 609 delaying the game, Rule 625 illegal
entry into the game, Rule 636 for throwing a stick and under Rule
639 for fouling from behind, the Referee shall designate the player
who has been fouled as the player who takes the penalty shot. In
cases where a penalty shot has been awarded under Rule 612 falling
on the puck in the goal crease or Rule 616 picking up the puck from
the goal crease area, the penalty shot shall be taken by a player
selected by the Captain of the non-offending team from the players
on the playing surface at the time when the foul was committed. Such
selection shall be reported to the Referee and cannot be changed. If
by reason of injury the player designated by a Referee to take the
penalty shot is unable to do so, the shot may be taken by a player
selected by the Captain of the non-offending team from players on
the playing surface when the foul was committed. Such selection
shall be reported to the Referee and cannot be changed.

(d)
Should the player in respect to whom a penalty shot has been
awarded, commit a foul in connection with the same play or
circumstances, either before or after the penalty shot has been
awarded, the player shall be first permitted to take the shot before
being sent to the penalty bench to serve the penalty, except when
such a penalty is for a game misconduct or match penalty in which
case the penalty shot shall be taken by a player selected by the
Captain of the non-offending team from the players on the playing
surface at the time the foul was committed. If, at the time a
penalty shot is awarded, the goalkeeper of the penalized team has
been removed from the playing surface for another player, the
goalkeeper shall be permitted to return to the playing surface
before the penalty shot is taken.

(e)
While the penalty shot is being taken, all players of both teams
except those involved with the taking of the penalty shot, must
withdraw from the playing surface onto their respective players'
bench.

(f)
If, while the penalty shot is being taken, any player of the
opposing team shall interfere with or distract the player taking the
shot, a goal shall be awarded.

(g)
If the goal is scored during a penalty shot, the puck shall be
faced-off at the center spot. If a goal is not scored, the puck
shall be faced-off at either of the end face-off spots in the zone
in which the penalty shot was taken.

(h)
Whether or not a goal is scored from a penalty shot, if an
infraction for which the penalty shot was awarded was such to incur:
1.) a major, match or misconduct penalty, the penalty shall be
assessed in addition to the penalty shot. 2.) a minor or bench minor
penalty, a further penalty to the offending player shall not be
applied.

(i)
If the foul upon which the penalty shot is based occurs during
actual playing time, the penalty shot shall be awarded and taken
immediately following the normal stoppage of play. The time required
for the taking of a penalty shot shall not be included in the
regular playing time.

Rule 407. Goalkeeper's Penalties

(a)
A goalkeeper shall not be sent to the penalty bench for an
infraction which incurs a minor, major or misconduct penalty, but
instead the penalty shall be served by a teammate who was on the
playing surface at the time the infraction was committed. Such
player shall be designated by the Coach and shall not be changed.

(b)
When a goalkeeper incurs a game misconduct penalty, the position
shall be taken by a teammate, or by a substitute or temporary
goalkeeper who is available, and such player shall be allowed the
goalkeeper's full equipment.

(c)
When a goalkeeper incurs a match penalty, the position shall be
taken by a teammate or a substitute goalkeeper who is available, and
such player shall be allowed the goalkeeper's equipment. However,
any additional penalties specifically called for by the individual
rules covering match penalties shall apply, and the offending team
shall be penalized accordingly. Such additional penalty shall be
served by another member of the team who was on the playing surface
at the time the infraction was committed. Such player is to be
designated by the Coach through the playing Captain and shall not be
changed.

(d)
All penalties assessed to a goalkeeper, regardless of who serves the
penalty, or any substitution, shall be charged in the records
against the goalkeeper.

(e)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to a goalkeeper who participates
in the play in any manner beyond the center line.

Rule 408. Delayed
Penalties

(a)
If a third player of any team is penalized while two players of the
same team are serving penalties, the penalty time of the third
player shall not commence until the penalty time of one of the two
players already penalized has elapsed. Nevertheless, the third
player penalized must immediately proceed to the penalty bench and
may be replaced by a substitute until such time as the penalty time
of the penalized player shall commence.

(b)
When any team shall have three players serving penalties at the same
time and because of the delayed penalty rule a substitute for the
third offender is in the playing surface, none of the three
penalized players on the penalty bench may return to the playing
surface until play has been stopped. When the play has been stopped,
the player(s) whose full penalty has expired may return to the
playing surface. The Penalty Timekeeper shall permit the return to
the playing surface in the order of expiration of their penalties,
of a player or players when by reason of the expiration of their
penalties the penalized team is entitled to have more than three
players on the playing surface.

(c)
In the case of delayed penalties, the penalized players whose
penalties have expired shall only be allowed to return to the
playing surface when there is a stoppage of play. When the penalties
of two players of the same team shall expire at the same time, the
Captain of that team shall designate to the Referee which player
shall return to the playing surface first and the Referee shall
instruct the Penalty Timekeeper accordingly. When a major and a
minor penalty are assessed at the same time to different players of
the same team, the minor penalty shall be recorded as being the
first of such penalties.

Rule 409. Calling of
Penalties

(a)
Should an infraction of the rules be committed by a player of the
team in possession of the puck, the Referee shall immediately stop
play and assess the penalty(s) to the offending player(s).

(b)
Should an infraction of the rules which call for a minor, bench
minor, major or match penalty, as committed by a player of a team
not in possession of the puck, the Referee shall signify the calling
of a delayed penalty by raising the arm and, on completion of the
play by the team in possession, shall immediately stop play and
assess the penalty to the offending player. "Completion of the play
by the team in possession" in this rule means that the puck must
have come into the possession and control of an opposing player, or
has been "frozen." This does not mean a rebound off the goalkeeper,
the goal or the boards or any accidental contact with the body or
equipment of an opposing player.

(c)
The ensuing face-off shall take place at the face-off spot nearest
to the location of the puck when play is stopped unless the stoppage
occurs in the Attacking Zone of the player penalized, in which case
the face-off shall be conducted at the nearest high zone face-off
spot.

(d)
If the penalty to be assessed is a minor penalty, and a goal is
scored on the play by the non-offending team, the minor penalty
shall not be assessed, but all other minor, major or match penalties
shall be assessed in the normal manner regardless of whether or not
a goal is scored.

(e)
If, after the Referee has signaled a penalty, but before play has
been stopped, the puck enters the goal of the non-offending team as
the direct result of the action of a player of that team, the goal
shall be allowed and the penalty signaled shall be assessed in the
normal manner.

(f)
If the Referee signals an additional minor penalty(s) against a team
that is already short-handed because of one or more minor or bench
minor penalties, and a goal is scored by the non-offending team
before the whistle is blown, the goal shall be allowed, the delayed
penalty(s) shall be assessed and the minor penalty being served
which caused the team to be shorthanded shall terminate
automatically.

(g)
Should the same offending player commit other fouls on the same
play, either before or after the Referee has stopped play, the
offending player shall serve such penalties consecutively.

(h)
All minor and bench minor penalties occurring after a goal has been
scored or during the stoppage of play when a penalty shot is being
attempted, shall be served in the normal manner under this rule.

Rule 410. Supplementary
Discipline

(a)
In addition to the suspensions assessed under these rules, the
League Authorities may, at the conclusion of the game, at their
discretion, investigate any incident that occurs in connection with
any game and may assess additional suspensions for any offense
committed before, during or after any game by a player or Team
Official, whether or not such offense had been penalized by the
Referee.

(b)
Does not apply.

(c) If the season should end prior to the expiration of a
player's or team official's suspension, the remainder of the
suspension must be served at the beginning of the next season that
the player or team official participates.

(d) Playoff games will count as league games for the purpose
of serving suspensions.

(e) Players or team officials that are serving a suspension
in one league/division will not be prevented from participating in
another league/division for which they are properly enrolled unless
Rivertown Sports authorities have issued a "building ban" against
the player or team official. In the case of a "building ban", the
player or team official is banned from the facility for the length
of the suspension.

Rule 411. Three-Penalty Rule

(a) Any player, other than a goalkeeper, given three (3) or more
penalties in a game will be assessed a “game misconduct” penalty.
The player will not be permitted to participate further in the game
and will not be allowed to remain on the bench area for the duration
of the game. A “double minor” penalty will be considered two (2)
penalties for the purpose of this rule.

b) All minor, major, misconduct, and bench minor penalties will
be included for the purposes of calculating three penalties. Delayed
minor penalties that were disregarded due to a goal being scored
will not be included in the calculation of three penalties.
(c) The penalty that results in the disqualification may be
served by the offending player or any other player.

(d) Players or coaches violating Rule 411(a) for a second
time in a season will be suspended for the next game of that team.
All subsequent violations will result in suspensions with escalating
severity, i.e., one additional game suspension for each violation.

Rule 412. Ten-Penalty Rule

(a) Should a team
accumulate ten (10) penalties in a game, the game will be
immediately stopped and declared a forfeit regardless of the actual
score of the game at the time it is stopped. The non-offending team
may choose to accept the actual score or a score of 1-0 as the official
score of the game. The forfeit will count in the official standings
as a game played and a regulation time loss.

(b) All minor, major, misconduct, and bench minor penalties
will be included for the purposes of calculating ten penalties.
Neither "Game Misconduct" penalties or delayed penalties that were
disregarded due to a goal being scored will be included in the
calculation of ten penalties.

Officials

Rule 501. Appointment of Officials

(a) Referee system - The official methods of officiating
Rivertown Sports games is with two Referees (2-man system). When a
2-man system is utilized, the duties of the Linesmen under Rule 503
shall be carried out by both Referees, in addition to the duties of
the Referee under Rule 502.

(b)
Does not apply.

(c)
The Referees shall have full authority and final decision in all
matters of dispute, and not subject to appeal, during the course of
the game.

(d)
All Referees should wear black
trousers, black and white striped sweaters designed for hockey, a
black hockey helmet with chin strap properly fastened, elbow pads
and shin and knee protection. Referees shall be equipped with finger
whistles and metal tape measures with a minimum length of 6 feet.

(e)
For tournament play, the Tournament Committee shall appoint a Game
Timekeeper, a Penalty Timekeeper, an Official Scorer.

Playing
Rules

Rule 601. Abusive Conduct

(a)
Any player who challenges or disputes the ruling of an Official,
attempts to incite an opponent or create a disturbance during the
game shall be assessed a minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct.
If the player persists in such conduct, a misconduct penalty shall
be assessed and any further persistence by the same player shall
result in the assessment of a game misconduct penalty. In the case
of a Coach or other Team Official, a bench minor penalty shall be
assessed first and if such conduct continues, a game misconduct
penalty shall be assessed.

(b)
Any player who shoots the puck after the whistle shall be assessed a
minor penalty if, in the opinion of the Referee, the player had
sufficient time after the whistle to refrain from taking the shot.

(c)
If any player does any of the following, the team shall be assessed
a bench minor penalty: 1. After being penalized, does not proceed
directly to the penalty bench or dressing room when ordered to do so
by the Referee. (Equipment shall be delivered to the penalty bench
or dressing room by a teammate). 2. Throws anything onto the playing
surface from the players' bench or penalty bench. 3. Interferes with
any Game Official, (non-physically) in the performance of their
duties.

(d)
If any player does any of the following, a misconduct penalty shall
be assessed: 1. Uses obscene, profane or abusive language to any
person before, during or after the game. 2. During a stoppage of
play, intentionally shoots or throws the puck out of the reach of an
Official who is retrieving it. 3. Enters and remains in the
Referee's Crease, when asked to leave, except for the purpose of
skating to the penalty bench. 4. Touches or holds any Game Official
with the hand or stick. 5. Intentionally bangs the boards,
protective glass, playing surface or goal with a stick at any time.
6. Physically or verbally threatens physical abuse to another
player.

(e)
If any player does any of the following, a game misconduct penalty
shall be assessed: 1. Persists in any course of conduct for which
the player has previously been assessed a misconduct penalty. 2.
Uses obscene gestures anywhere in the rink before, during or after
the game.

(f)
If any player does any of the following, a match penalty
shall be assessed: 1. Deliberately inflicts or attempts to inflict,
physical harm to a Game Official or a Team Official in any manner.
2. Behaves in any manner which is critically detrimental to the
conduct of the game including spitting at an opponent, Game Official
or Team Official.

(g)
If any Team Official does any of the following, the team shall be
assessed a bench minor penalty: 1. Bangs the boards with a stick or
other instrument at any time. 2. Uses obscene, profane or abusive
language to any person before, during or after the game. 3. Throws
anything onto the playing surface from the players' bench. 4.
Interferes with any Game Official, (non-physically) in the
performance of their duties. 5. Attempts to incite an opponent into
incurring a penalty.

(h)
If any Team Official does any of the following, a game misconduct
penalty shall be assessed: 1. Persists in any course of conduct for
which the Team Official has previously been assessed a bench minor
penalty. 2. Uses obscene gestures anywhere in the rink before,
during or after the game.

(i)
If any Team Official does any of the following, a match
penalty shall be assessed: 1. Deliberately inflicts or attempts to
inflict, physical harm to a Game Official or a Team Official in any
manner. 2. Behaves in any manner which is critically detrimental to
the conduct of the game including spitting at an opponent, Game
Official or Team Official.

Rule
602. Adjustment to Clothing and Equipment

(a)
Play shall not be stopped or delayed by reason of adjustment of
clothing, equipment, skates, or sticks. For a violation of this rule
a minor penalty shall be assessed.

(b)
The onus of maintaining clothing and equipment in the proper
condition shall be upon the player. If adjustments are required, the
player shall retire from the playing surface and play shall continue
uninterrupted with a substitute.

(c)
No delay shall be permitted for the repair or adjustment of
goalkeeper's equipment. If adjustments are required, the goalkeeper
shall retire from the playing surface and be replaced by the
substitute or temporary goalkeeper immediately and no warm-up shall
be permitted. For a violation of this rule by a goalkeeper, a minor
penalty shall be assessed.

(a)
A match penalty shall be assessed to any player who deliberately
attempts to injure an opponent, Official, Coach, or Trainer in any
manner, and the circumstances shall be reported to the League
Authorities for further action. A substitute for the penalized
player shall be permitted at the end of the fifth minute.

Rule
604. Body-Checking and Boarding

(a)
A minor penalty or major plus a game misconduct penalty, at the
discretion of the Referee, shall be assessed to any player who
intentionally body-checks an opponent, with or without the puck.

(b)
A minor penalty or major plus a game misconduct penalty, at the
discretion of the Referee, shall be assessed to any player who makes
physical contact with an opponent after the whistle has been blown,
if, in the opinion of the Referee, the player had sufficient time to
avoid such contact.

(c)
A minor penalty or major plus a game misconduct penalty, at the
discretion of the Referee based upon the degree of violence of the
impact with the boards, shall be assessed to any player who fouls an
opponent in such a manner that caused the player to be violently
thrown into the boards. "Rolling" an opposing puck carrier
along the boards where the player is attempting to go through too
small an opening is not boarding.

(d)
When a player injures an opponent as the result of
"boarding" or "body-checking," the Referee shall
assess a major plus a game misconduct penalty to the offending
player.

Rule
605. Broken Stick

(a)
A player whose stick is broken may participate in the game provided
the broken stick is dropped immediately. A minor penalty shall be
assessed for an infraction of this rule. A broken stick is one
which, in the opinion of a Referee, is unfit for normal play.

(b)
This rule has been
eliminated.

(c)
A replacement stick may only be obtained from the players' bench or
from a teammate on the playing surface. For a violation of this
rule, a bench minor penalty shall be assessed to the team of the
offending player, unless a penalty has been assessed under Rule 601
for throwing articles onto the playing surface. The intent of this
rule is to provide for the assessment of one penalty for one illegal
stick replacement.

(d)
A goalkeeper may not go to the players' bench for a replacement
stick during a stoppage of play, but must receive a replacement
stick from a teammate. For an infraction of this rule, a minor
penalty shall be assessed to the offending goalkeeper.

Rule
606. Charging and Checking From Behind

(a)
A minor penalty or major plus a game misconduct penalty, at the
discretion of the Referee, shall be assessed to a player who runs,
jumps into, or charges an opponent. If more than two steps or
strides are taken, it shall be considered "charging."

(b)
Charging and Checking
from Behind. Requires a major penalty and a game misconduct to be
assessed to a player who intentionally body-checks an opponent from
behind into the boards or goal frame. A minor penalty may no longer
be assessed under these circumstances.

(c)
A minor penalty or a major plus a game misconduct penalty shall be
assessed to a player who body-checks or charges a goalkeeper while
the goalkeeper is within the goal crease or privileged area. A
goalkeeper is not "fair game" just because the goalkeeper
is outside the privileged area. A penalty for interference or
charging must be assessed in every case where an opposing player
makes unnecessary contact with a goalkeeper.

(d)
When a player injures an opponent as the result of
"charging" or "checking from behind," the
Referee shall assess a major plus a game misconduct penalty to the
offending player.

Rule
607. Cross-Checking and Butt-Ending

(a)
A minor penalty or major plus a game misconduct penalty, at the
discretion of the Referee, shall be assessed to a player who
cross-checks an opponent.

(b)
A major penalty and a game misconduct shall be assessed for
butt-ending. A minor penalty may still be assessed for attempt to
butt-end (no contact).
An attempt to butt-end shall include all cases in which a butt-end
gesture is made, regardless of whether body contact is made or not.

(c)
When a player injures an opponent as the result of
"cross-checking" or "butt-ending," the Referee
shall assess a major plus a game misconduct penalty to the offending
player.

(d)
Butt-ending may also be treated as a match penalty under attempt to
injure or deliberate injury to an opponent.

Rule 608. Deliberate Injury to
Opponents and Head-Butting

(a)
A match penalty shall be assessed to a player who deliberately
injures an opponent, Team Official or Game Official in any manner,
and the circumstances shall be reported to the League Authorities
for further action.

(b)
No substitute shall be permitted to take the place of the penalized
player until after five minutes actual playing time have elapsed,
from the time the penalty was assessed.

(c)
A match penalty shall be assessed to a player who deliberately
head-butts an opponent, Team Official or Game Official, and the
circumstances shall be reported to the League Authorities for
further action.

Rule 609. Delaying the Game

(a)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player or goalkeeper, who
delays the game by deliberately shooting, batting or throwing the
puck outside the playing area. This penalty shall also be assessed
when it occurs during a stoppage of play. Intentional delay of the
game by a goalkeeper shall be assessed at the discretion of the
Referee.

(b)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to a player or goalkeeper who
delays the game by deliberately displacing the goal post from its
normal position. Play shall be stopped immediately when the goal
post has been displaced. If a goalkeeper deliberately displaces the
goal post or deliberately removes the helmet or face mask during the
course of a breakaway by the attacking team, a penalty shot shall be
awarded to the non-offending team. The penalty shot shall be taken
by the player last in possession of the puck.

(c)
A bench minor penalty shall be assessed to any team which, after a
warning by the Referee, fails to place the correct number of players
on the playing surface, thereby causing a delay in any manner.

(d)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to a player who, after a warning
by the Referee, fails to maintain a proper position during the
face-off.

(e) Prohibits a player from turning the blade of their stick
over and using the tip to hold the puck to the surface while stick
handling. For a violation, play shall be stopped and the ensuing
face-off shall be that nearest end zone face-off spot of the
offending team.

(f)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player, except a goalkeeper, who
delays the game by using the hand to pick the puck up off the
surface.

Rule 610. Elbowing or Kneeing

(a)
A minor penalty or major plus a game misconduct penalty shall be
assessed to any player who uses the elbow or knee in such a manner
as to foul an opponent, in any way.

(b)
When a player injures an opponent as the result of
"elbowing" or "kneeing," the Referee shall
assess a major plus a game misconduct penalty to the offending
player.

Rule
611. Face-Offs

(a)
The puck shall be "faced-off" by the Referee dropping the
puck onto the playing surface between the sticks of the two players
facing-off. Players facing off shall stand facing their opponent's
end of the rink with the blade of their sticks in contact with the
nearest white area of the face-off spot and clear of the red center
area of the spot. The attacking team player shall be the first
player to place the stick on the playing surface. If a player
facing-off fails to take the proper position immediately when
directed by the Official, the Official may order a replacement for
that face-off by a teammate on the playing surface. No other player
shall be allowed to enter the face-off circle or come within 15 feet
of the players facing-off the puck, and they must stand on-side on
all face-offs. When a player, other than the player facing-off,
fails to maintain the proper position, the center of the offending
team shall be ejected from the face-off. For a second violation of
any of the provisions of this rule, a minor penalty shall be
assessed to the player who commits the second violation. No
substitution of players shall be permitted until the face-off has
been completed and play has been resumed except when any penalty is
assessed during the face-off. The whistle shall not be blown to
start play. Playing time shall commence from the instant the puck is
faced-off and shall stop when the whistle is blown.

(b)
If, after a warning by the Official, either of the players fails to
take the proper position for the face-off promptly, the Official
shall be entitled to conduct the face-off regardless of such
default.

(c)
During the conduct of any face-off, no player shall make any
physical contact with an opponent except in the course of playing
the puck after the face-off has been completed. For a violation of
this rule the Referee shall assess a minor penalty to the player
whose action caused the physical contact. "Conduct of any
face-off" commences when the Official designates the spot of
the face-off and takes up a position to drop the puck.

(d)
No face-off shall be conducted at a location other than at a
face-off spot.

(e)
When a stoppage of play occurs between the end zone face-off spots
and the near end of the rink, the ensuing face-off shall take place
at the end face-off spot on the side where the stoppage occurred,
unless otherwise provided in these rules.

(f)
When a violation of a rule has been committed, or a stoppage of play
has been caused by any player of the attacking team in the Attacking
Zone, the ensuing face-off shall take place at the nearest high zone
face-off spot. This includes a stoppage of play caused by a player
of the attacking team shooting the puck onto the back of the
defending team's goal without any intervening action by the
defending team.

(g)
When a violation of a rule has been committed or a stoppage of play
has been caused by players of both teams, the ensuing face-off shall
take place at the nearest face-off spot (excluding center face-off
spot) to where the puck was when the stoppage occurred.

(h)
When a goal is legally scored, the ensuing face-off shall be
conducted at the center face-off spot.

(i)
When the game is stopped for any reason not specifically covered in
the Official Playing Rules, the ensuing face-off shall take place at
the nearest face-off spot to where the puck was last played.

Rule
612. Falling on Puck

(a)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to a player, other than a
goalkeeper, who deliberately falls on or gathers the puck into the
body or who holds the puck against any part of the goal or the
boards. Any player who drops to block a shot shall not be penalized
if the puck is shot under the player or becomes lodged in any
clothing or equipment. A minor penalty shall be assessed to any
player who uses the hands to obtain such stoppage.

(b)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to a goalkeeper who falls on or
gathers the puck into the body, when the body is entirely outside
the boundaries of the privileged area or who falls on or gathers the
puck into the body, when the body is entirely outside the goal
crease and the puck is behind the goal line. A minor penalty shall
be assessed to a goalkeeper who holds the puck against any part of
the goal or the boards.

(c)
No defending player, except the goalkeeper, shall be permitted to
fall on the puck, hold the puck, or gather a puck into the body or
hands when the puck is within the goal crease. For a violation of
this rule, play shall be immediately stopped and a penalty shot
shall be awarded to the non-offending team. However, if the
goalkeeper has been removed from the playing surface when the
infraction occurs, a goal shall be awarded to the non-offending team
in lieu of the penalty shot. This rule shall be interpreted so that
a penalty shot shall be awarded only when the puck is in the goal
crease at the instant the infraction occurs. However, in cases where
the puck is outside the goal crease, Rule 612 (a) may still be
applied and a minor penalty assessed, even though no penalty shot is
awarded.

Rule
613. Fisticuffs (Fighting)

(a)
A major penalty shall be assessed to any player who is involved in a
fight on or off the playing surface before, during or after the
game.

(b)Does not
apply.

(c)
Any player receiving a major penalty for fisticuffs shall
automatically be assessed a game misconduct penalty.

(d)
A game misconduct penalty shall be assessed to any player or
goalkeeper who is the first to intervene in an altercation already
in progress. This penalty is in addition to any other penalty
incurred in the same incident.

(e)
A game misconduct penalty shall be assessed to any player who
resists the Game Officials in the discharge of their duties during
an altercation.

(f)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to a goalkeeper who leaves the
immediate vicinity of the goal crease to participate in an
altercation. This penalty shall be in addition to any penalty
incurred during the altercation.

(g) A game misconduct penalty shall be
assessed to any player who throws a punch at another player or
official. It is not necessary for the punch to "connect"
for the game misconduct penalty to be assessed.

(h) All game misconduct penalties for fighting or throwing
punches will also include an automatic one-game suspension. The
automatic suspension is a minimum suspension. Additional suspensions
may be given.

Rule
614. Goals and Assists

(Note) It is the
responsibility of the Referee to award goals and assists, and such
decision is final. In cases of an obvious error in awarding a goal
or an assist which has been announced, it should be corrected
promptly. Changes shall not be made on the scoring summary after the
Referee has signed the Official Score Sheet.

(a)
A goal shall be scored when the puck has been put between the goal
posts by the stick of a player of the attacking team from in front,
below the cross bar and entirely across the goal line, before
playing time expires. A "goal" shall be credited in the
scoring records to a player who shall have propelled the puck into
the opponent's goal. Each "goal" shall count as one point
in the player's record. An "assist" shall be credited to
the player or players taking part in the play immediately preceding
the goal, but no more than two assists can be credited on any goal.
Only one point can be credited to any one player for any one goal
scored.

(b)
A goal shall be scored if the puck is put into the goal in any way
by a player of the defending team. The player of the attacking team
who last played the puck shall be credited with the goal, but no
assist shall be awarded.

(c)
If an attacking player kicks the puck and the puck goes directly
into the goal or is deflected into the goal by any player, including
the goalkeeper, the goal shall not be allowed.

(d)
If the puck is deflected into the goal from the shot of an attacking
player by striking any part of any player, the goal shall be
allowed. The player who deflected the puck shall be credited with
the goal. The goal shall not be allowed if the puck has been kicked,
thrown, or otherwise deliberately directed by an attacking player
into the goal by any means other than a stick.

(e)
If a goal is scored as a result of a puck being deflected directly
into the goal off an Official, the goal shall not be allowed.

(f)
Should a player legally propel the puck into the goal crease of the
opposing team and the puck becomes loose in the goal crease and
available to a player of the attacking team, any goal scored on the
play shall be allowed.

(g)
Any goal scored, other than as covered by the Official Playing
Rules, shall not be allowed.

(h) In the
Adult Tin and Aluminum (beginner) divisions only, a
player is not allowed to
score more than three (3) goals in a game. If a player scores three
goals in a game he will be barred from scoring any further goals for
the duration of the game. If player scores his/her fourth goal, the
goal will be disallowed and the offending player will receive a
minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct. This penalty will be
assessed against that player for any subsequent goals for the
duration of the game.

(i) Adult Tin and Aluminum division players
scoring a goal in a game must report to the officials that they
scored the goal. Failure to immediately and correctly report which
player scored may result in the
offending player and/or team captain receiving an unsportsmanlike
conduct and/or misconduct penalty.

(a)
If a player, other than a goalkeeper, closes the hand on the puck,
play shall be stopped and a face-off shall follow; however, if the
puck is dropped immediately, play shall be allowed to continue. If a
goalkeeper holds the puck with the hand for more than three seconds,
play shall be stopped and a face-off shall follow; however, after an
initial warning by the Referee, a goalkeeper who holds the puck
unnecessarily shall be assessed a minor penalty for delaying the
game.

(b)
A goalkeeper shall not intentionally drop the puck into the pads or
onto the goal net nor deliberately pile obstacles at the goal that,
in the opinion of the Referee, would tend to prevent the scoring of
a goal. The object of this rule is to keep the puck in play
continuously and any action taken by the goalkeeper which causes an
unnecessary stoppage shall be penalized. For a violation of this
rule, a minor penalty shall be assessed to the offending player.

(c)
If a goalkeeper throws the puck forward toward the opponent's goal
and it is first played by a teammate, play shall be stopped and the
ensuing face-off shall be conducted at the nearest end zone face-off
spot of the offending team.

(d)
If a defending player, other than the goalkeeper, picks up the puck
in the goal crease from the playing surface with the hands, or holds
the puck while it is in the goal crease, the play shall be stopped
immediately and a penalty shot shall be awarded to the non-offending
team. If the above situation occurs while the goalkeeper is off the
playing surface, a goal shall be awarded to the non-offending team.

(e)
A player shall be permitted to stop or "bat" the puck in
the air with the hand, or push it along the playing surface with the
hand, and play shall not be stopped unless the puck has been
directed to a teammate in the Attacking Zone, in which case the play
shall be stopped and the puck faced off at the nearest high zone
face-off spot.

(f)
A goal that is scored as the result of the puck being propelled by
the hand of an attacking player and entered the goal either directly
or after deflecting off any player including the goalkeeper, shall
not be allowed.

Rule
617. High Sticks

(a)
The carrying of the stick above the normal height of the shoulders
is prohibited. The Referee shall assess a minor penalty or a major
plus a game misconduct penalty to any player who strikes an opponent
with a stick so carried.

(b)
When a player injures an opponent as the result of "high
sticking," the Referee shall assess a major plus a game
misconduct penalty to the offending player.

(c)
A goal scored by an attacking player who strikes the puck with the
stick which is carried above the height of the goal frame cross bar,
shall not be allowed.

(d)
Batting the puck above the normal height of the shoulders with the
stick is prohibited and when it occurs play shall be stopped and the
ensuing face-off shall take place at an end zone face-off spot of
the offending player's team unless: 1. The puck is batted to an
opponent, in which case the play shall continue. 2. A player of the
defending team shall bat the puck into the player's own goal, in
which case the goal shall be allowed.

Rule
618. Holding an Opponent

(a)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to a player who holds an opponent
with the hands, legs, feet, stick, or in any other way.

(b)
A minor or major penalty shall be assessed to any player who grabs
or holds the face mask of an opponent with the hand.

(c)
When a player injures an opponent as the result of "holding the
face mask," the Referee shall assess a major plus a game
misconduct penalty to the offending player.

Rule
619. Hooking

(a)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to a player who impedes or seeks
to impede the progress of an opponent by hooking with the stick.

(b)
When a player injures an opponent as the result of
"hooking," the Referee shall assess a major plus a game
misconduct penalty to the offending player.

Rule
620. Icing the Puck

No
such rule.

Rule
621. Interference

(a)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player who interferes with
or impedes the progress of an opponent who is not in possession of
the puck, deliberately knocks a stick out of an opponent's hand,
prevents a player who has dropped the stick or any other piece of
equipment from regaining possession of it, or shoots a stick or
other object toward an opponent. The last player to touch the puck
shall be considered to be the player in possession.

(b)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player on the players' or
the penalty bench who, by means of the stick or body, interferes
with the movements of the puck or an opponent on the playing surface
during the progress of play.

(c)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player who, by means of the
stick or body, interferes with or impedes the movements of the
goalkeeper while the goalkeeper is in the goal crease area.

(d)
Unless the puck is in the goal crease area, a player of the
attacking team may not stand on the goal crease line or in the goal
crease or hold the stick in the goal crease. If the puck should
enter the goal while such a condition prevails, a goal shall not be
allowed. For a violation of this rule, while the attacking team has
possession of the puck, play shall be stopped and the ensuing
face-off shall take place at the nearest high zone face-off spot.
This rule shall not apply when the goalkeeper is out of the goal
crease.

(e)
If a player of the attacking team has been pushed or otherwise
physically forced into the goal crease by an opposing player, and
the puck should enter the goal while the player so interfered with
is still in the goal crease, the goal shall be allowed.

(f)
When the goalkeeper has been removed from the playing surface and
any member of the same team not legally on the playing surface
interferes by means of the body, stick, or any other object with the
movements of the puck or an opposing player, the Referee shall
immediately award a goal to the non-offending team.

(Note) The attention of Referees is directed
particularly to three types of offensive interference which shall be
penalized.
1.
When the defending team secures possession of the puck in its own
zone and the other members of the same team run interference for the
puck carrier by forming a protective screen against forecheckers.
2.
When a player facing-off obstructs an opponent after the face-off
when the opponent is not in possession of the puck.
3.
When the puck carrier makes a drop pass and follows through so as to
make body contact with an opposing player.

Rule
622. Interference by Spectators

(a)
In the event of a player being held or interfered with by a
spectator, the Referee shall immediately stop the play, unless the
team of the player being interfered with is in possession of the
puck at the time, in which case the play shall be allowed to be
completed. The ensuing face-off shall take place at the nearest
face-off spot to where the puck was last played.

(b)
Any player who physically interferes with a spectator shall be
assessed a game misconduct penalty and the circumstances shall be
reported to the League Authorities for further action.

(c)
In the event that objects are thrown onto the playing surface which
interfere with the progress of the game, the Referee shall stop the
play and the ensuing face-off shall take place at the nearest
face-off spot to where the puck was last played.

Rule
623. Kicking Player

(a)
A match penalty shall be assessed to a player who kicks or attempts
to kick another player. A substitute shall be permitted at the end
of the fifth minute.

Rule
624. Kicking Puck

(a)
Kicking the puck shall be permitted in all zones; however, a goal
that is scored as the result of the puck being kicked by an
attacking player and entered the goal either directly or after
deflecting off any player including the goalkeeper, shall not be
allowed.

Rule
625. Leaving the Player's Bench or Penalty Bench

(a)
No player may leave the players' bench or penalty bench at any time
during an altercation. Substitutions made prior to the start of the
altercation shall not be penalized under this rule provided the
players so substituting do not enter the altercation. A double minor
penalty plus a game misconduct penalty shall be assessed to the
player who was the first to leave the players' or penalty bench
during an altercation. If players of both teams leave their
respective benches at the same time, the first identifiable player
of each team shall be penalized under this rule. For the purposes of
determining which player was the first to leave the players' bench
during an altercation, the Referee may consult with the Linesmen or
other Game Officials. Any player who leaves the players' bench
during an altercation and is assessed a minor, major or misconduct
penalty for such actions, shall also be assessed a game misconduct
penalty. Other players who leave the players' bench or penalty bench
during an altercation shall be assessed a misconduct penalty
(maximum 5 per team). If a player illegally enters the game, any
goal scored by that team while the illegal player is on the playing
surface shall be disallowed, but all penalties assessed to either
team shall be served as regular penalties.

(b)
Except at the end of each period, or upon the expiration of a
penalty, no player may leave the penalty bench, at any time. A
penalized player who leaves the penalty bench prior to the
expiration of the penalty, whether play is in progress or not, shall
be assessed an additional minor penalty after serving the unexpired
penalty time. When a player leaves the penalty bench prior to the
expiration of the penalty, the Penalty Timekeeper shall note the
time and verbally alert the Referee who shall stop play when the
offending player's team gains possession and control of the puck. In
the case of a player returning to the playing surface prior to the
expiration of the penalty, through an error of the Penalty
Timekeeper, the player is not to serve an additional penalty, but
must serve the unexpired time. A penalized player who leaves the
penalty bench during an altercation shall be assessed a minor
penalty plus a game misconduct penalty, in addition to any unexpired
time. When a penalized player returns to the playing surface from
the penalty bench prior to the expiration of the penalty, any goal
scored by that team, while the player is illegally on the playing
surface, shall be disallowed, but all penalties assessed to either
team shall be served as regular penalties.

(c)
If a player of the attacking team in possession of the puck shall be
in a position as to have no opposing player to pass other than the
goalkeeper, and is interfered with by a player who has entered the
game illegally, the attacking player shall be awarded a penalty
shot. If the opposing goalkeeper is off the playing surface and the
attacking player is interfered with by an illegal player, a goal
shall be awarded to the non-offending team.

(d)
If a Team Official steps onto the playing surface after the start of
a half and before that half is completed without the permission of
the Referee, the Referee shall assess a bench minor penalty to the
team of the offending Coach.

(e)
During any face-off, if a team starts with fewer players than
entitled to, any player subsequently entering the game shall not be
eligible to play any puck coming from the Defending Zone while the
player is in the Attacking Zone unless the puck is first played by
another player in the Attacking Zone.

Rule
626. Off-Sides

No
such rule.

Rule
627. Passes

(a)
The puck may be passed by any player to any player of the same team
within any of the two zones into which the rink is divided and may
be passed forward by a player in the Defending Zone to a teammate
over the center red line.

Rule
628. Puck Out of Bounds or Unplayable

(a)
The puck must be kept in motion at all times. Play shall not be
stopped because the puck is frozen along the boards by two or more
opposing players, unless one of the players falls onto the puck. If
one player freezes the puck along the boards or if a player
deliberately falls on the puck a minor penalty shall be assessed for
delaying the game. However, the Referee may stop the play along the
boards if allowing play to continue shall lead to unnecessary
contact surrounding the puck.

Rule
629. Puck Must Be Kept In Motion

(a)
When the puck goes outside the playing area or strikes any obstacles
above the playing surface other than the boards, glass or wire, it
shall be faced-off at the nearest face-off spot to where it was last
played. When the puck becomes unplayable due to a defect in the
rink, it shall be faced-off at the nearest face-off spot to where it
was last played. However, if the puck is shot out of the rink by the
attacking team, the face-off shall be at the nearest high zone
face-off spot.

(b)
When the puck becomes lodged in the netting on the outside of the
goal or if it is frozen between opposing players, the Referee shall
stop play and face-off the puck at the nearest face-off spot to
where it was last played unless, in the opinion of the Referee the
stoppage was caused by a player of the attacking team, in which case
the ensuing face-off shall be conducted at the nearest high zone
face-off spot. The defending team and/or the attacking team may play
the puck off the net at any time. However, should the puck remain on
the net for longer than three seconds, play shall be stopped and the
face-off shall take place at the nearest end zone face-off spot,
except when the stoppage is caused by a player of the attacking
team, in which case the ensuing face-off shall be conducted at the
nearest high zone face-off spot. If the puck comes to rest on top of
the goal frame, the play shall be stopped immediately.

(c)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to a goalkeeper who deliberately
drops the puck on the goal netting to cause a stoppage of play.

(d)
If the puck comes to rest on top of the boards surrounding the
playing area, it shall be considered to be in play and may be played
legally by the hand or stick.

(e)
Does not apply.

Rule
630. Puck Out of Sight and Illegal Puck

(a)
Should a scramble take place, or a player accidentally falls on the
puck and it is out of the sight of the Referee, play shall be
stopped immediately. The ensuing face-off shall take place at the
nearest face-off spot, unless otherwise provided for in the rules.

(b)
If, at any time during play, a puck other than the one officially in
play shall appear on the playing surface, which interferes with the
progress of the game, the play shall be stopped immediately.

Rule
631. Puck Striking Official

(a)
Play shall not be stopped because the puck touches an Official
anywhere on the rink.

Rule
632. Refusing to Start Play

(a)
If, when both teams are on the playing surface, one team for any
reason shall refuse to play when ordered to do so by the Referee,
the Captain shall be warned and the team so refusing shall be
allowed 15 seconds to begin the game or resume play. If, at the end
of that time the team shall still refuse to play, the Referee shall
assess a bench minor penalty to the offending team. Should there be
a reoccurrence of the same incident, the Referee shall suspend the
game, and the circumstances shall be reported to the League
Authorities for further action.

(b)
If a team, when ordered to do so by the Referee, fails to go onto
the playing surface promptly, it shall be assessed a bench minor
penalty. If the team shall still refuse to go onto the playing
surface and start play within five minutes, the Referee shall
suspend the game, and the circumstances shall be reported to the
League Authorities for further action.

Rule
633. Slashing

(a)
A minor penalty or major plus a game misconduct penalty, at the
discretion of the Referee, shall be assessed to any player who
slashes or attempts to slash an opponent with the stick. Referees
should penalize as "slashing" any player who swings the
stick at an opponent (whether in or out of range) without actually
making contact, or when a player on the pretext of playing the puck
makes a wild swing at the puck with the intent to intimidate an
opponent.

(b)
When a player injures an opponent as the result of
"slashing," the Referee shall assess a major plus a game
misconduct penalty to the offending player.

(c)
Any player who swings the stick at another player during the course
of any altercation shall be subject to a match penalty, and the
circumstances shall be reported to the League Authorities for
further action.

(d)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player who makes stick
contact with the opposing goalkeeper, in the goal crease, who has
covered or caught the puck, regardless of whether or not the Referee
has stopped the play.

Rule
634. Spearing

(a)
A major penalty and a game misconduct shall be assessed for
spearing. A minor penalty may still be assessed for attempt to spear
(no contact).
Attempt to spear shall include all cases where a spearing gesture is
made regardless of whether body contact is made or not.

(b)
When a player injures an opponent as the result of
"spearing," the Referee shall assess a major plus a game
misconduct penalty to the offending player.

(c)
Spearing may also be treated as a match penalty under attempt to
injure or deliberate injury to an opponent.

Rule
635. Start of Game and Periods

(a)
The game shall start at the time scheduled by a face-off at the
center face-off spot and shall be promptly resumed for the second
half in the same manner.

(b)
Each team shall defend the goal furthest from its players'
bench to start the game. The teams shall change ends for each
succeeding half or overtime period.

(c)
During the pre-game warm-up and before each half, each team shall
confine its activity to its own end of the rink. All players must
wear full equipment during warm-ups and during the handshake
following the game.

(d)
It is recommended that when both teams are to leave the playing
surface through a common exit, the team whose players' bench closest
to the exit leave first. The home team should enter the playing
surface first.

(e)
When a team fails to appear on the playing surface without a proper
justification, an Official shall warn the team that it must enter
the playing surface immediately. If the team fails to do so
promptly, the Referee shall assess a bench minor penalty for
Delaying the Game.

Rule 636. Throwing Stick

(a)
When any player or Team Official of the defending team deliberately
throws or shoots a stick or any other object at the puck in the
Defending Zone, the Referee shall allow the play to be completed and
if a goal is not scored, a penalty shot shall be awarded to the
fouled player. If, however, the goal is unattended and the attacking
player has no defending player to pass and has a chance to score on
an open goal, and a stick or any other object is thrown or shot at
the puck by a member of the defending team, thereby preventing a
shot on the open goal, a goal shall be awarded to the non-offending
team.

(b)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player on the playing
surface who throws or shoots a stick or any other object in the
direction of the puck in any zone except when such act has been
penalized by a penalty shot or awarded goal. When a player discards
a broken stick by tossing it to the side of the rink (and not over
the boards) in such a way that shall not interfere with play or an
opposing player, no penalty shall be assessed for doing so.

(c)
A misconduct penalty shall be assessed to any player who throws a
stick or any part thereof outside the playing area. A game
misconduct penalty shall be assessed to any player who deliberately
throws a stick or any part thereof outside the playing area at or in
the direction of any spectators.

Rule 637. Time of Match and
Time-Outs

(a)
A game shall consist of three 17 minute running clock periods. If the
score is within two goals, or tied, stop time shall be played during
the last two minutes of play. A one-minute rest period shall be
permitted between periods, after which the teams shall change ends.

(b)
The team scoring the greater number of goals during the three
periods
shall be declared the winner, and shall be credited with two points
in the standings.

(c)
The Referee may order the game to be suspended anytime the playing
area is deemed to be in an unsafe condition. The game shall remain
suspended until such condition is corrected. Referees are
particularly cautioned about wet playing surfaces and should take
the overly-cautious approach when determining whether or not playing
conditions are safe.
If
any unusual delay occurs during the first or second periods, the Referee may
order the intermission to take place immediately and the balance of
the period shall be completed upon the resumption of play with the
teams defending the same goals, after which the teams shall change
ends and resume play of the period without delay.

(d)
Each team shall be permitted to take one time-out of a one minute
duration which must be taken during a stoppage of play. The clock
shall be stopped during a time out. The clock shall be restarted
upon the conducting of the ensuing face-off.
During
a time-out, all players on the playing surface may proceed to their
respective players' bench. Any penalized player must remain in the
penalty bench during a time-out.
A
time-out may not be used to warm-up a goalkeeper.

Rule 638. Tied Games

(a)
If
at the end of the three (3) regular seventeen (17) minute periods,
the score shall be tied, each team shall be awarded one point in the
League standings. The teams will then play an additional overtime
period of not more than five (5) minutes with the team scoring first
declared the winner and being awarded an additional point. In
League games, if no team scores during the overtime period
the game shall be declared a tie. In tournament games, additional
overtime periods shall be played until a winner is determined.

(b)The overtime period will be
commenced immediately following a one (1) minute rest period during
which the players will remain on the ice. The teams will not change
ends for the overtime period.
(c)
The overtime period shall be stop-clock
time.

(d) The overtime period shall be played with each team at a
numerical strength of three (3) skaters and one (1) goalkeeper.

(Note
1) If a team is penalized in overtime, teams play 3-2.

(Note
2) In overtime, if a team is penalized such that a two-man
advantage is called for, then the offending team will remain at two
(2) skaters while the non-offending team will be permitted a fourth
skater.
At the
first stoppage of play after the two-man advantage is no longer in
effect, the numerical strength of the team will revert back to
either a 3-on-3 or a 3-on-2 situation, as appropriate.

(Note
4) If there is a man power advantage situation which carries
over from regulation time to overtime, the above criteria will be
applied at the start of overtime. Accordingly, if at the end of
regulation time, the teams are 4-on-3, overtime begins at 3-on-2.

(Note 5) When the
regulation ends with an on-ice manpower strength of 4-on-2, teams
will commence the overtime with a strength of 4-on-2. With the
expiration of penalties, due to continuous action, player strength
may get to 4-on-4 or 4-on-3. At the first stoppage of play
following, player strength must be adjusted to 3-on-3 or 3-on-2.

(Note 6) If at the
end of regulation time teams are 2-on-2, overtime starts 2-on-2.
Once player strength reaches a 4-on-3 or 4-on-4, at the next
stoppage player strength is adjusted to 3-on-2 or 3-on-3, as
appropriate.

(Note 7) If at the
end of regulation time teams are 3-on-3 with a player or players in
the box serving non-coincidental penalties, overtime starts 3-on-3
and players exit penalty box as normal to 4-on-3 or 4-on-4. At first
stoppage of play, teams are adjusted to 3-on-2 or 3-on-3, as
appropriate.

Rule
639. Tripping

(a)
A minor penalty shall be assessed to any player who places the
stick, leg, knee, foot, arm, hand, or elbow in such a manner that it
causes an opponent to trip or fall. If, in the opinion of the
Referee, a player is unquestionably hook-checking the puck and
obtains possession of it, thereby tripping the opposing player, no
penalty shall be assessed. Accidental trips that occur
simultaneously with the whistle shall not be penalized. Any player
who deliberately dives onto the playing surface, except to block a
shot, contacts an opponent and causes the player to trip or fall,
shall be assessed a minor penalty.

(b)
When a player, in possession and control of the puck in the
Attacking Zone and having no opponent to pass other than the
goalkeeper, is tripped or otherwise fouled from behind, thus
preventing a reasonable scoring opportunity, a penalty shot shall be
awarded to the non-offending team. The Referee shall not stop the
play until the attacking team has lost possession and control of the
puck to the defending team. The intent of this rule is to restore a
reasonable scoring opportunity which has been lost by reason of a
foul from behind when the foul is committed on the opponent's side
of the center red line. "Possession and control" of the
puck means the act of propelling the puck with a stick. If, while it
is being propelled, the puck is touched by another player, hits the
goal or goes free, the player shall no longer be considered to be
"in possession and control" of the puck.

(c)
If, when the opposing goalkeeper has been removed from the playing
surface, a player in possession and control of the puck is tripped
or otherwise fouled with no opposing player to pass, thus preventing
a reasonable scoring opportunity, the Referee shall immediately stop
play and award a goal to the non-offending team.

Rule
640. Unnecessary Roughness (Roughing)

(a)
At the discretion of the Referee, a minor or double minor penalty
may be assessed to any player who uses unnecessary roughness against
an opponent.

(b)
A minor penalty for unnecessary roughness must be assessed every
time an opposing player makes unnecessary physical contact with the
player in possession of the puck. It is not the intent to penalize
incidental contact between two opposing players who are actively in
pursuit of the puck. The act of riding an opponent off the puck
shall not be considered to be roughing. However, this does not allow
the player without the puck to throw his or her body into the
opponent to achieve possession.

Rule 641. Eight-Point Differential Rule

(a)
When the score of
any regular-season game reaches an eight-goal differential, the
officials will notify both teams that the "mercy rule" is
in effect. From that point on, the team leading in the score will
skate with one less player than they would normally be allowed. The
team leading in the score will skate "short-handed" for
the remainder of the game.

(b) This rule will remain in effect regardless of the number
of goals that are scored by either team for the remainder of the
game unless the game becomes tied at some point..